Hemp oil is a pretty wonderful product. Created from the small seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant, this oil has a variety of uses including the treatment of pain and inflammation. It can also be taken orally to improve heart health as well as used topically on the skin to treat a variety of concerns including acne, eczema and psoriasis.
This handy oil can be found in a variety of skincare products and has even been used in the production of hand sanitiser. It’s safe to say that the hype around hemp oil is warranted and as such, is why we’re pretty obsessed with the glossy yellow oil.
Hemp oil and skin
If you’re a fan of slathering yourself in oils like rosehip or jojoba, you’re going to love hemp oil. This cannabis-based product is rich in omega-3s and omega-6s, which according to Healthline, has been shown to be effective in treating a number of skin conditions. Take acne, for example, wth a 2014 study found hemp oil to be a potent and potentially universal anti-acne treatment.
When used orally, it has also been shown to help eczema and psoriasis. According to Healthline, a 20-week study from 2005 also concluded that dietary hemp oil improved eczema symptoms, while research from 2015 indicated that the omega-3 fatty acids, as a nutritional supplement, can be helpful in treating psoriasis.
Using hemp oil topically
Before popping it straight on your face, we recommend patch testing on your elbow just in case it produces a reaction. If you experience any redness, itching, burning or irritation, hemp oil isn’t for you. If this occurs, wash it straight off your skin with soap and water. If no reaction occurs, you’re probably good to go.
If you’re wanting to use it straight-up as a moisturising facial oil, simply pop it on after cleansing your skin but before putting on your face cream. If you’re wanting to use it to treat acne, Healthline recommends applying the oil directly to clean skin, leaving it for one to two minutes and then washing it off with warm water.
Using hemp oil orally
To target issues like eczema and psoriasis, taking hemp oil orally is the way to go. Ingesting the product means there’s less of a chance of a reaction, like with your skin, although it could cause temporary digestive upset for some people. Before consuming hemp oil orally for the first time, its best to consult your doctor.
When taking it orally, Healthline recommends having one to two teaspoons of the oil per day — either all at one time or divided into two doses. The oil can also be taken straight or mixed into salad dressings or smoothies should you want to hide the taste of the product.
To grab some for yourself, check out where to find the hemp oil in Australia.